Nigeria’s TCN Commences Implementation of SCADA Systems to Enhance Power Grid
The Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN) has announced the commencement of the implementation of the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems to enable real-time monitoring and control of the power grid. This technological advancement is expected to significantly improve grid stability, reduce transmission losses, and enable quicker response to faults and disturbances.
According to Sule Abdulaziz, the Managing Director of TCN, the implementation of SCADA systems is a major milestone for the company. He made this remark during an oversight function by members of the House of Representatives Committee on Power at the company’s headquarters in Abuja.
Abdulaziz explained that the SCADA systems will allow for increased grid visibility, reduced transmission losses, and improved response time to faults and disturbances. He noted that the company has also implemented effective Frequency Control and Load Balancing, which has led to a drastic reduction in instances of partial and full system collapses.
The TCN boss said that the company has also implemented Internet of Things (IoT) technology in Automatic Meter Reading Infrastructure and Digital Transformation, using internal homegrown solutions and vendor-procured applications to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of its operations. Additionally, a designated web-portal has been created for managing the output of generations and allocations to Distribution Companies (DisCos).
Abdulaziz emphasized the importance of sustaining these efforts, requiring continued investment, capacity building, and collaborative partnerships. He highlighted the need for Federal Government support to provide necessary resources to build a resilient and efficient transmission network. He believes that this will enable TCN to meet the nation’s growing power demands and contribute to sustainable development.
On the part of the House of Representatives Committee on Power, Chairman Victor Nwokolo urged TCN to engage state governments on Right of Way (ROW) and discuss the issue of security of power infrastructure, as many structures have been destroyed. The Committee has also promised to look into the issue of ground rent and ensure that such rents are paid from when the infrastructure were put on ground.
The implementation of SCADA systems is expected to have a significant impact on Nigeria’s power sector, improving efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.
